how can an evolving first ring suburb in a strong region become the best version of itself?

SUMMARY

Wheat Ridge has rural roots, originally developing out of an agricultural history in unincorporated Jefferson County. The city incorporated in 1969 from a defensive position, not wanting to be annexed by Denver or another neighboring community, but generally lacked a desire to plan for life as a modern Denver suburb. As the Denver region strengthened in the 21st Century, and demographic turnover occurred, Wheat Ridge found itself both facing housing and development pressure from a strong market, and playing catch-up on infrastructure and amenities demanded by its changing base of residents. 

czb was retained in a competitive process to write a new comprehensive plan, titled Wheat Ridge City Plan, that would respond to these changing circumstances and help the city continue on its path of modernization and increased desirability. The plan focuses on four key priorities, including a more robust bicycle and pedestrian network and a strengthened retail environment. It also features a sophisticated approach to curating development and redevelopment in a city that has few greenfield sites, and that must ensure peaceful coexistence between new development and existing residential neighborhoods.

The Wheat Ridge City Plan was adopted in September 2025.